With the start of the year also comes the start of campus parties, whoop whoop! But if this is your first time going to one of these parties it can seem a bit overwhelming. Which party do you go to? What do you wear? Who do you go with? So here are some tips for getting through your first campus party in one piece.

Go and party with friends

Whether you’re taking your roommate that you just meet or some old friends, it’s always a good idea to stick together at parties. So make sure that you keep track of each other, and never leave a party without the people you came with or without telling your friends you’re leaving.

You don’t have to drink

Whether you don’t feel like it or you just don’t drink alcohol, you don’t have to force yourself to drink or to drink too much. You can have a good time by letting loose on the dance floor and having a good time with your friends. Go there with the aim of having a good time, that’s all you need.

Keep an eye out

Campus parties are a place where you’ll meet all sorts of people. Some of them might be great and others may be shady as all hell. So make sure that you keep an eye out for any danger signs, like not taking “no” for an answer, and to not take any drinks that you didn’t make yourself. And look out for friends who may feel “trapped” in conversations by taking them to the dance floor.

Dress comfortably

Sure you want to make a good impression by looking great. But if that means torturing yourself by wearing overly tight jeans and uncomfortable high heels, then don’t do it. The point of the party is for you to enjoy it. How can you do that if you’re stuck sitting because you can’t stand for long in those shoes? So make sure that you’re dressed comfortably and take it from there.

Organise your party bag

No matter what party you go it, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. You never know what can happen, so always take some extra cash, a power bank, snack bars, tampons, tissues, etc. This way you’ll be prepared for anything and everything.

Plan your ride home

Before you leave your room, you need to have a ride planned out. Whether you are catching an Uber or taking a ride from a friend, make sure you plan it out. It’s also a good idea to make a plan with your friends so that you know who to find when the party’s over.

In the end, the point is for you to go out and have a good time. So don’t do anything that you don’t want to and keep an eye out for your party buddies.